On May 28, a special forum “You Are What You Love—Why Everybody Worships Something” by Professor James K.A. Smith (Philosophy, Calvin College) was held at the Korea University Science and Engineering Library. The auditorium was crowded with people from countless nations and age groups who gathered to attend this special forum.

 

The lecture first started with an hour-and-a-half speech by Professor Smith, with a translator translating every statement of the professor’s lecture. Professor Smith first discussed “identity”, “love”, their meanings and their relationships with one’s own consciousness. Professor Smith illustrated that these are the two concepts that indirectly and unconsciously influence people’s minds, pointing out that “you love without realizing it.”

 

After his explanation of “identity” and “love” as keys to finding one’s unconscious and personal desires, Professor Smith continued the lecture, suggesting religion as a possible key to finding one’s personal desires. He highly praised the importance of religion in our lives, asserting that religion can help people to confront their inner selves and realize their value. After the lecture, Professor Smith held a question and answer (Q&A) and open discussion sessions to exchange thoughts and opinions with the audience.